The Hugo : An Aperol Alternative

If you’ve been to Italy, then you’ve likely taken part in the age-old tradition of the evening aperitivo, and odds are high that your drink of choice was the classic Aperol Spritz. With its eye-catching orange color hinting at a profile of sugary citrus, it has undoubtedly lured many sweet-toothed travelers into a false sense of security only to deliver a sharp and bitter taste. In spite of this impressive bait and switch tactic, the drink has nevertheless managed to hold a respectable reputation amongst tourists and Italians alike, with many choosing it day in, day out as their aperitivo of choice.

Perhaps it is the bright color or the cheerful wedge of orange that keeps us coming back to this picture perfect cocktail; or better yet its surefire guarantee of being served chilled on ice - a staple which Americans are often disappointed to find absent from their Italian water glasses. Either way, while we can admit that this bitter libation has a way of growing on you with repeat exposure, for some the fanfare and instagram-worthy nature of this spritz is simply not worth the learning curve. If you find yourself in this camp, fear not - for the Aperol Spritz has a relative! No, not the Campari - put that down. Instead, reach for the Elderflower syrup and pour yourself a Hugo.

First mixed in 2005 by South Tyrolean bartender Roland Gruber, the Hugo Spritz’ is built upon the same Prosecco and club soda base as the Aperol, but with Elderflower liqueur and a healthy sprig of fresh mint added to the mix. Finish with a slice of lime and you’ve got a cocktail that delivers equal in aesthetic and superior in sweetness to its misleadingly colorful cousins. Perfect for those scorching Italian summers, the Hugo Spritz is often on the menu but overlooked by tourists as a worthy choice; not for lack of interest, but rather a lack of marketing. Its softer color and gentle taste simply doesn’t catch the eye quite like Aperol or Campari, but undoubtedly you will find it available and ready to delight at most restaurants and bars across Italy.

So this summer, while you witness the bitter sting of fellow travelers persevering through their evening Aperol in the name of the bandwagon, rest easy in your chair and opt for a sweeter alternative. Your tastebuds will thank you and your counterparts may very well be inspired to venture beyond the iconic order and sample la dolce vita with a Hugo in hand!